Foldable Display Protection Structure for Hinge Gap Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable electronic devices face issues with display protection, as the display is exposed through disconnection spaces in the hinge structure, leading to potential damage from foreign substances and user manipulation, which can cause malfunction.
Innovation Solution
A foldable electronic device with a display protection structure that includes a housing structure with protection covers and protective caps to shield the display periphery, using polymer or metal materials to prevent exposure and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the display is fixed to the housing structures with a protective layer and periphery hidden through separate protection covers, then the display is protected during folding operations, but foreign substances can flow into the disconnection space and cause malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sealing structure as an intermediary element between the protection cover and the housing body. This sealing structure fills the disconnection space and prevents foreign substances from entering, while still allowing the protection cover to move during folding operations. The sealing structure acts as a mediator that maintains both protection and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible sealing film or membrane that can deform during the folding process. This flexible sealing structure maintains the barrier function against foreign substances while accommodating the relative movement between housing structures. The thin film nature allows it to conform to the changing geometry during folding without compromising the seal.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the periphery of the display is exposed through the disconnection space, then the hinge structure has freedom of movement during folding operations, but the display periphery is vulnerable to user manipulation and foreign substances
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing structure serves as an intermediary that allows the protection cover to move freely during folding while simultaneously protecting the display periphery. It mediates between the need for movement freedom and the need for protection, enabling both functions to coexist without compromising either.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different properties to different regions: the protection cover maintains high mobility in the disconnection space region, while the sealing structure provides protective coverage in the same region. This local differentiation allows the system to achieve both movement freedom and protection simultaneously in the critical disconnection space area.
3Reliability
If a rigid front window structure is used to protect the display, then the display is well protected, but the device cannot be folded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the rigid front window with a flexible protective layer and a movable protection cover system. The flexible protective layer adheres to the display and can be folded, while the protection cover provides additional protection during folded states. This flexible approach maintains display protection while enabling folding functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a static rigid protection structure to a dynamic system where the protection cover can change its position and configuration during folding operations. The protection cover moves from covering the display in unfolded states to protecting the folded display in compact states, providing adaptive protection that maintains effectiveness throughout the folding cycle.
Data Source
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AI summary
An electronic device is provided, which includes a hinge structure corresponding to a folding region of electronic device; a first housing structure connected to the hinge structure, and including a first surface, a second surface facing away from the first surface, and a first side member surrounding a first space between the first surface and the second surface; a second housing structure connected to the hinge structure, and including a third surface, a fourth surface facing away from the third surface, and a second side member surrounding a second space between the third surface and the fourth surface, wherein the first housing structure and the second housing structure fold and unfold about the hinge structure, wherein the first surface and the third surface face a same direction in an unfolded state, and wherein the second surface and the fourth surface face opposite directions in a folded state; a display that traverses at least a portion of the first surface and at least a portion of the third surface through the folding region; a first protection cover disposed in the first housing structure on at least some of a periphery of the display; a second protection cover disposed in the second housing structure on at least some of the periphery of the display; and a protection structure that protects the periphery of the display in the folding region.